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Pathology, pop quizzes, and the power of partnership
David and Kathlyn Harrison have spent nearly five decades navigating life’s twists and turns together—raising three kids, doting on grandkids, and building careers. But nothing tested their teamwork like enrolling in a Certificate III in Pathology Collection (HLT37215) at TAFE Queensland on the Gold Coast.
“I thought we knew everything about each other,” David said.
“Then we had a few ‘discussions’ over quiz answers. Turns out, Kathy was usually right!”
After retiring from their respective careers—David in human resources, Kathy in behavioural optometry and eye surgery—they both sought new ways to stay engaged.
Volunteering was already a part of their lives, with David assisting at a hospital and Kathy sewing clothes for children in need. But when they decided to upskill together, they had no idea what they were in for.
From day one, it became clear where their strengths were.
“David’s the theory guy,” Kathlyn said.
“Kathy was a natural at the hands-on skills, so we made a pretty good team.” David said.
Studying as a duo had its perks. Carpooling to the Southport campus, moral support, and having a built-in study buddy made the process smoother. But, as with any great partnership, there was a fair share of playful competition.
“Sometimes it was challenging when we argued about the answers to knowledge assessments,” said David.
Their decision to study pathology started as a simple idea – learn something new. But it turned into acquiring practical skills.
“We wanted to learn something new that could be useful for our family, and maybe even lead to casual work in healthcare," said David.
“The units covered so many health-related skills, and we knew they’d be valuable beyond just employment,” he said.
Their classmates—many of them decades younger—welcomed the couple into the fold.
“At first, we felt our age,” David said.
“By the end, we were just part of the group and everyone helped each other. We are grateful for the amazing connections we made with people of all ages.”
“It reminded us that learning doesn’t have an age limit and no matter how old you are, learning something new is always worth it,” he said.
Now, with their certificates in hand, David and Kathlyn aren’t slowing down. They plan to continue volunteering and may even pick up some part-time work in healthcare with their new qualification.
“We’ll see where life takes us,” Kathlyn said.
“If nothing else, we’ve got a great new skill set—and a whole lot of memories.”
“This journey brought us even closer,” she said.
For David and Kathy, their time at TAFE Queensland was more than just a qualification—it was proof that you’re never too old to embrace new experiences, push your limits, and do it all with your best friend by your side.